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Just had a BBL photofacial and wondering if that redness is normal? In most cases, it is. Here’s what to expect while your skin heals, from the first 48 hours to the day your results look their best.
Quick answer: Photofacial aftercare comes down to four things: stay out of the sun for two weeks, keep your hands off treated skin, stay hydrated and wait 24 hours before using retinol or exfoliants. Mild redness, swelling and darkened spots are normal and usually fade within one to two weeks on the face.
At Skin Pharm, a photofacial means a BBL photofacial. BBL (BroadBand Light) is an in-clinic light treatment that targets acne, sun damage, redness and uneven tone. It’s performed by our board-certified providers and advanced practice providers, with little to no downtime. Results aren’t immediate: redness calms within a few days, and pigment improves over one to two weeks.
A BBL photofacial can help with:
Your provider applies a cooling gel to the treatment area and gives you protective eyewear, then uses the BBL device to deliver pulses of light to your skin. Most patients say it feels like a quick rubber band snap. A session takes about 30 minutes.
BBL works best on Fitzpatrick skin types I-IV. Light energy can trigger hyperpigmentation in deeper skin tones, so for Fitzpatrick types V-VI, Skin Pharm recommends Moxi laser, microneedling, Gold Infusion or a chemical peel instead. BBL isn’t recommended for melasma, since heat can make it worse. If melasma is your main concern, ask your provider about a chemical peel, Gold Infusion, microneedling or PRP.
A little prep helps your skin heal smoothly and keeps your results on track.
Most side effects, like redness, swelling and sensitivity, come from a temporary disruption to your skin barrier. These aftercare steps keep all three mild and short-lived:
A few healing signs can look surprising at first, but they mean the treatment is working.
Your at-home routine supports your results while your skin heals. Your provider can recommend specific products, but Skin Pharm recommends these three, the same products your provider applies right after treatment:
You can also browse our full skin care lineup or ask your provider at your next visit.
BBL works best as a series. For redness and pigment, Skin Pharm recommends 3-4 treatments spaced 4 weeks apart. For active acne, weekly or biweekly treatments over 6-12 weeks work best. After your series, seasonal or annual maintenance keeps your results going.
The right schedule depends on your skin type and goals, so your provider will build a plan around you. For more on timing, see how often you should get a facial.
Yes, and combining treatments often gives you better results. BBL pairs well with many of our in-clinic treatments. Additionally, BBL can be combined with other skin treatments like Moxi, microneedling or Gold Infusion for treatment of tone and texture.
BBL and Botox is a popular combination for fine lines and wrinkles. BBL builds collagen and tightens skin gradually, while Botox softens expression lines, with full results in about two weeks.
Good aftercare protects your results as much as the treatment itself. Stay out of the sun, keep your hands off your face and give your skin 24 hours before going back to retinol. Not sure where to start? Book a skin consult, and a board-certified provider will build a treatment plan and routine around your skin.
Julia Franklyn, PA-C, is a board-certified physician assistant and the Director of Clinical Training at Skin Pharm. Follow her on Instagram.
